A jury heard Antonio Da Silva targeted his victim inside a flat, in Wardroper House, Walker, in Newcastle’s East End.

Da Silva’s pal Gersom Airosa had invited the woman to the property but when he left her alone, Da Silva crept into the darkened bedroom and raped her.

She raised the alarm and called police, who arrived at the flat and arrested both men.

And during the course of their inquiries, officers discovered Airosa was in possession of a fake passport, which he had used to get a UK driving licence.

The 25-year-old Angolan admitted ID fraud offences at Newcastle Crown Court, where he was jailed for nine months.

During the hearing, the court was told Airosa had been living on Tyneside for several years and claiming benefits using his false ID.

Meanwhile, Da Silva, 32, who is also Angolan, was charged with rape, which he denied, leading to a trial.

But the jury found him guilty and he was jailed for eight years. The verdict was welcomed by detectives who led the investigation.

Det Con Andy Kelsall said: “I’m delighted with the eight-year sentence which has been passed by the court, and I hope it can bring some comfort to the victim to know this man is now in prison.

“It sends out a clear message that this sort of offence will not be tolerated and we’ll always do all we can to ensure offenders are dealt with appropriately and put before the courts.”

The victim and her friend went back to the Wardroper House flat with Airosa and another man in the early hours of Saturday, April 25, 2009.

But it was only when she was left alone that Da Silva moved in to commit the wicked attack. Neither Airosa nor the other man were charged in connection with the rape.

Det Con Kelsall had praise for both women’s courage during the investigation and trial.

He added: “It’s vital we provide as much support to victims as possible to help them through the investigation and court process and I hope this result will give other women the courage to come forward.

“This has been a prolonged process and both the victim and her friend, a witness, showed great resilience and bravery to see it right through to the end.”